I like the set-up now. Benteke is head-it first, whereas Wickham would rather shoot. The CBs are trying to stay very tight to Benteke, which means the wingers are more likely facing one v one situations and have more time before getting double-teamed.

Zaha and Bolasie had very similar games, I think the mix with Zaha and Townsend is looking better. Zaha will still punish with tricks and speed (though now he is finally stopping to pop an early cross in now and then!), AT likes to cut inside and look for a shot or short pass. It seems likely AT will soon get his first goal from a cutback from Benteke, who draws a lot of attention.

As far as Plan B, I hope AP is working on a 2 striker system that has Wickham and Benteke working together instead of putting Wickham on the wing, which won't work. They need to figure out a way to make that work, because we'll be doing that when we are chasing the game.

I liked Kelly's game, but if he doesn't keep impressing, I think we may see Ward at LB, and Tomkins or Flamini in at RB. Though Fryers looked good in preseason, so him starting isn't as terrifying as it would have seemed last year.

Overall, despite the injuries I like our depth a lot better (Little Ben notwithstanding) Bringing Campbell, Sako or Mutch on to try to save a game was just depressing.

Edited by ThatPetrolRelation (12 Sep 2016 7.58pm)

Last week Pardew said that he doesn't currently know the best team and he will need to fit the pieces together.

Interesting reading. I would suggest that the same applies to Benteke if better opposition is cutting out the crosses we put in. Friend was awful on Saturday and Wilf took advantage. We won't get such treatment from better clubs.

So I manage a Workshop which provides a safe learning environment for blokes struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. Being a Palace fan isn't listed yet.

Pardew's best team is Reading.

Sorry, couldn't resist that!

Bit unfair.

I remember, and there was the usual debate, which Friend has nicely settled for us. He's not good enough for the PL!

So I manage a Workshop which provides a safe learning environment for blokes struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. Being a Palace fan isn't listed yet.